The San Francisco 49ers are activating linebacker Dre Greenlaw from the physically unable to perform list ahead of Thursday night’s clash with the Los Angeles Rams at Levi’s Stadium, a league source confirmed.
Greenlaw, who suffered an Achilles tendon injury in February’s Super Bowl LVIII loss to the Kansas City Chiefs 10 months ago, had his 21-day practice window opened by the 49ers on Nov. 27.
The 27-year-old’s 120 tackles last season ranked just behind Fred Warner (132) for the team lead, despite playing two fewer games. Greenlaw’s presence will be a welcome one for a 6-7 Niners team looking to keep playoff hopes alive in the final four games of the regular season. Still, San Francisco currently ranks No. 3 in total defense allowing 298.5 yards per game.
Greenlaw will see limited snaps in return
The 49ers have long circled Thursday’s game against the Rams for Greenlaw’s return.
For one, it’s on grass. The 49ers think they have the best surface in the NFL, which is a big deal when coming back from a ruptured Achilles. A Thursday night game also will give Greenlaw plenty of runway to recover and get ready for next week’s game in Miami.
Though Greenlaw will be back in uniform, he may not get his usual full complement of snaps. Like Talanoa Hufanga, who was coming back from a wrist injury in Week 14, Greenlaw likely will be on a pitch count. However, merely seeing the fiery linebacker in uniform for the first time since February ought to bring plenty of energy to the 49ers. They — in particular, Warner — were devastated when Greenlaw went to the ground while running onto the field for a defensive series in the Super Bowl. The hope is that seeing Greenlaw finally return to action will bring a commensurate lift. — Matt Barrows, 49ers senior writer
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